What Will Your Tombstone Say?

With honour, this piece was published by the International Coach Federation – GTA Chapter – as part of International Coaching Awareness week. My submission was in response to: “What passion do you bring to your work as a coach?” Here goes:

A provocative question!

Thoughts of our brief earthly sojourn were recently re-ignited by the untimely passing of a beloved leader-client at age 63 last January. Sylvia’s shocking departure begs the question, what was her enduring legacy?

In processing her personal loss, my answer was a renewed resolve to not leave the planet with my ‘music’ still inside.

As a coach impassioned by our worthy profession, it’s like Sylvia catalyzed a Warrior who will now stop at nothing to crusade for humanity to bask in their brilliance and reclaim their inner truth. My life was already dedicated to enthusing people to unleash their potential. Now my credo (“Encouraging Your Greatness!”) has added fire-power.

In the typical way we coaches invite reflection while forwarding action, I call you forth to consider: How do you want the world to be different as a result of your presence?

A “work in progress”, I plan to live until at least 112. That sees me here for a minimum of 59 more years. It’s never too late to embrace your Essence.

Our in-trays will be full, even on our last day. Sylvia’s was. Never come to the ‘end’ regretting what could have been. Let your music out!

As Eartha Kitt said: “I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma.”